Answers to Your Top AC Myths and Concerns
Like most technologies, air conditioning systems rely on intricate parts and processes to function. Fully understanding these intricacies can take years, meaning there are plenty of opportunities for misunderstanding and misinformation. As a result, AC myths that hurt both your AC unit and your wallet circulate.
Express Air Conditioning & Heating doesn’t expect you to understand the ins and outs of your unit — our team already does! Turn to our professionals for guidance on optimizing your system by scheduling an AC maintenance appointment today.
Until then, make sure you haven’t fallen victim to the following HVAC myths.
AC Myth #1: Air Conditioning Is Only for Cooling
Myth Busted: Many homeowners think air conditioning merely chills their environment. While this is certainly the most obvious benefit of a cooling system, this myth overlooks the “conditioning” part in AC’s name. Your unit also controls humidity and filters out germs, ultimately improving indoor air quality.
AC Myth #2: Thermostat Placement Doesn’t Affect Energy Saving
Myth Busted: Contrary to popular belief, the location of your thermostat can have a huge impact on your unit’s efficiency. To improve your HVAC system’s energy-saving power, make sure to position it away from sunlight, windows, furniture and doorways. This thermostat placement limits exposure to outdoor air and heat.
AC Myth #3: Cranking the Thermostat Way Down Makes it Cold Faster
Myth Busted: Turning your thermostat all the way down (or all the way up during winter) has no effect on your system’s speed. It’s best to simply set your thermostat to whatever final temperature you want. This contributes to energy saving too, as you won’t force your unit to reach an icy temperature that you don’t actually prefer.
AC Myth #4: A Bigger Unit is Better
Myth Busted: While it’s true that bigger units tend to have more cooling power, not all houses need it. It’s more important to pick whatever size best fits your circumstances. In other words, don’t waste money on a huge unit if you live in a small or midsized home, as this can promote unnecessary energy expenditure or accelerate wear and tear.
AC Myth #5: It’s Cheapest to Never Change the Temperature
Myth Busted: Out of a genuine desire to protect the environment and save money, some homeowners meddle with their thermostats to keep their homes at precisely the same temperature.
However, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, it’s actually cheaper and more efficient to keep your thermostat as close to outdoor temperatures as you’re comfortable with. The closer indoor and outdoor temperatures are, the less energy your system requires.
AC Myth #6: Filters Get Replaced Annually
Myth Busted: Fresh filters are integral to proper AC maintenance, and if you only change yours once a year, they’re definitely not clean enough. In fact, you should aim to swap out filters every 90 days or — if you live with a shedding pet — every 60 days. This prevents filter clogging, which contributes to long-term damage.
If you don’t want to replace filters yourself, you can always schedule an AC tune-up. The technician often changes them as part of regular maintenance.
AC Myth #7: Maintenance is Optional
Myth Busted: Going hand-in-hand with the previous point, air conditioning maintenance is mandatory. Scheduling a tune-up at least once a year keeps your unit running smoothly and efficiently. Plus, records of seasonal maintenance are often needed to take advantage of your system’s warranty.
Seek Guidance from Professionals
If you’ve been misled by any of these AC myths and hurt your system in the process, schedule a service appointment with Express Air Conditioning & Heating today. Through tune-ups and repairs, our team can keep your unit in top shape.
